The ANTIGONE project (ANTIcipating the Global Onset of Novel Epidemics) was an initiative funded by the European Union's FP7 research program. Its main aim was to enhance understanding of emerging infectious diseases, particularly zoonotic pathogens that can spread between animals and humans. ANTIGONE brought together 14 academic partners from seven European countries, including virologists, microbiologists, epidemiologists, and ecologists, making it a multidisciplinary effort to tackle the pandemic potential of zoonotic diseases.
The project focused on studying the genetic processes and evolutionary changes in pathogens like the E. coli O104 strain, which caused an outbreak in Germany. Research under ANTIGONE identified specific genetic features that contributed to the pathogen's virulence and ability to cross the human-to-human transmission barrier, helping to improve diagnostic and intervention methods for future outbreaks. This included advancements in rapid detection and typing methods using real-time PCR protocols, which have practical applications in medical diagnostics.
ANTIGONE also worked on developing epidemiological and ecological risk assessment models to predict and prevent the introduction of zoonotic viruses into Europe. These models considered various transmission routes, such as human travel, trade, and illegal activities like bushmeat importation, to assess the risk of viruses like Ebola, Marburg, and MERS reaching Europe. The project emphasized a One Health approach, integrating research across human, animal, and environmental health domains to better understand and prevent disease outbreaks.
Overall, the ANTIGONE project made significant contributions in several areas, including improving surveillance, diagnostics, and understanding of pathogen transmission. It also fostered a new generation of scientists trained in interdisciplinary approaches to tackling emerging infectious diseases, ensuring a more robust response to future global health threats.